Aurangabad Tour

Located in the Marathawada region of Maharashtra, Aurangabad is a city of many names with centuries of history in its wake that dates back to 2nd century BC, the Buddhism era. However its documented history can be only traced back to 1610 AD. Established as Khidki by Malik Amber, it was renamed Fatehnagar by his son and then Aurangabad after Aurangzeb, who made the city his capital from 1653- 1707. With Aurangzeb’s death, the city underwent into a rapid decline but now has re-emerged as the Tourism capital of Maharashtra, majorly visited for its historical monuments, spectacular gates and as a gateway for exploring the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora.

Attractions of Aurangabad

Bibi-ka-Maqbara
This near replica of Taj Mahal embodies the love of a son for his mother. Built in sandstone by Prince Azim Shah for his mother & Aurangzeb’s wife Rabia-ul-Durani in 1678 AD, this stunning structure is often called Dakkhani Taj (Taj of the Deccan).

Aurangabad Caves
Carved out of basalt rocks during 6th or 7th century, the 10 caves are covered with sculptures depicting Jataka tales with the highlight being a sculpture of Bodhisattva.

Ajanta Caves
Located around 100 kilometers from Aurangabad, the remarkable cave temples of Ajanta are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of them belong to the early Buddhist period while some were embellished around 5th century AD (Mahayana Period) These 30 rock-cut caves with Buddha figures, depiction of Jataka stories, paintings and sculptures are often described as the finest surviving examples of Indian art. Much older than Ellora, the downfall of Ajanta came with the rise & popularity of Ellora.

Ellora Caves
Dating back to the 6th and 10th century, these stunning monolithic cave temples chipped out laboriously over five centuries by generations of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks are now a UNESCO preserved Heritage Site. Extending over 2 kilometers and comprising of 17 Hindu, 12 Buddhist, and 5 Jain caves, the temples are an epitome of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture.

Other Attractions of Aurangabad

• Daulatabad Fort
• Bhadra Maruti Temple
• Pitalkhora Caves
• ?Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary
• Grishneshwar Temple / Jyotirlinga
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum

Fairs & Festivals of Aurangabad

• Aurangabad Festival
• Ajanta and Ellora Festival

Shopping in Aurangabad
Himroo shawls woven over handloom in complicated patters, Mashroo & Kimkhab weaves, Pathani silk sarees, and silver inlay Bidriware are some of the handcrafted marvels of Aurangabad.

Food in Aurangabad
Naan Khaliya, a Mughal delicacy where naan bread is served with spicy mutton curry and Mewa Jalebis, pudding, are the signature dishes of Aurangabad.

Best Time to Visit
Aurangabad is best visited in the winter months from October to March.

How to Reach Aurangabad
By Air- Chikalthana Airport, around 11 kilometers from Aurangabad city is connected to all the major airports in India.
By Rail- Regular & direct trains to Aurangabad are available from all major railway stations across the country.
By Road- Central Bus station and CIDCO Bus Station of Aurangabad are serviced by both government and private buses connecting Aurangabad to other major Indian cities.